New York – Letitia James, New York Attorney General, announced the conviction and sentencing of Frank Whittaker, 56, and his daughter Christine Ellsworth, 39, for swindling over $230,000 from a 92-year-old victim in Ulster County. The duo used their positions to gain trust, then stole funds for personal luxury items. Whittaker was sentenced to five years’ probation and restitution, while Ellsworth received three years’ probation with a ban on working with the elderly.
Whittaker and Ellsworth provided services to the victim, gaining access to her finances and ultimately appointing themselves as Power of Attorney. They then transferred $230,000 into Whittaker’s account for their own use. The stolen funds were spent on a new car, dining, gambling, and jewelry.
The duo was charged with Grand Larceny in the Second Degree in August 2024. A search warrant executed during their arrests recovered over $92,000 of the stolen money. Whittaker faces five years’ probation and restitution, while Ellsworth is barred from working with the elderly for three years.
‘Scamming vulnerable seniors out of their lifetime earnings is heartless,’ said Attorney General James. ‘We will continue to protect New Yorkers against these crimes.’
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James praised the joint investigation, stating that they would put an end to such crimes and ensure justice for victims.
Related Federal Cases
- Sununu Declares War on Trump’s GOP Grip · New Hampshire
- Wall Street Bailout: NY & CA Lose $2 Trillion · North Carolina
- “K Money” Crumbles: Wall St. Pretender Admits $2M Scam · New York
- PPE Lie: Edison Execs Plead Guilty to $10M Scam · Ohio
- NY Valet Scam: 37 Months for Fraud · Ohio
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: NY AG
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More

